Suwon: It is not often that K League players get to face stars from European clubs. And when the chosen few of Team K League, selected by fans and coaches, go up against Newcastle United on Wednesday, head coach Kim Pan-gon wants them to capitalize on that opportunity.
According to Yonhap News Agency, Kim expressed his desire for the players to measure themselves against Europe-based stars during a press conference at Suwon World Cup Stadium. The stadium, located approximately 30 kilometers south of Seoul, will host the exhibition match between Team K League and Newcastle United, the English Football League Cup champions, at 8 p.m. Wednesday as part of the annual Coupang Play Series.
Kim emphasized the importance of the match as a growth opportunity for the players, highlighting their need to overcome challenges and give their best effort for the fans. He mentioned that his staff had devised strong game plans and hoped the players would execute them to make K League fans proud.
As the head coach of the defending K League 1 champions, Ulsan HD FC, Kim was selected to coach Team K League. He recruited Gwangju FC head coach Lee Jung-hyo as his assistant for the match, praising Lee as the most aggressive and detail-oriented coach in the K League. Kim stated that their strategy would involve aggressive defense, high pressing, and quick transitions, aiming to balance winning with creating a festive atmosphere for the fans.
The starting lineup, along with one under-22 player, was voted on by fans. However, a couple of players were replaced due to injury and impending transfers. Kim and Lee completed the 22-man squad by naming 10 reserves.
In previous Coupang Play Series editions, homegrown talents like Yang Hyun-jun and Yang Min-hyeok turned their performances against European clubs into opportunities with Celtic and Tottenham Hotspur, respectively. Kim expressed his willingness to see more players follow similar paths.